Nearly every AC system has inside it at least one capacitor, responsible for creating the cool air you feel inside your home. Since capacitors are such an essential component of air conditioning systems, my clients frequently ask me what factors impact the cost of AC capacitors — specifically, what it costs to have them replaced by HVAC contractors.
The function of an AC capacitor within an HVAC system (whether a start capacitor or a run capacitor) is to store and discharge electrical energy to keep your AC unit’s compressor, condenser fan motor, and blower motor operating at peak performance and your energy bills down where they should be.
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How Much Does It Cost to Replace an AC Capacitor?
AC capacitor replacement cost varies based on several factors, but the national average is around $180. Typically, homeowners can expect to spend between $70 and $375 for air conditioner capacitor replacement from a professional HVAC technician during a preventative maintenance visit.
| AC CAPACITOR COST | |
| Average Cost | $180 |
| Highest Cost | $375 |
| Lowest Cost | $70 |
How Do Costs Differ By AC Capacitor Type?
AC capacitor costs vary by capacitor type. The common types found in residential heating and air conditioning units are the run capacitor, dual run capacitor, and start capacitor.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of an AC capacitor by capacitor type:
| AC Capacitor Type | Cost |
| Run Capacitor (Single) | $70 – $110 |
| Run Capacitor (Dual) | $160 – $375 |
| Start Capacitor | $110 – $325 |
Run Capacitor (Single)
A single run capacitor assists a single component (AC compressor, fan motor, or blower motor) using a stored charge to maintain the necessary electrical field to keep the device operating. The average cost range for a single run capacitor is between $70 and $110.
Run Capacitor (Dual)
A dual run capacitor works like a single run capacitor but assists two components simultaneously — typically a compressor and a condenser fan. The average cost range for a dual run capacitor is between $160 and $375.
Start Capacitor
A start capacitor assists a compressor or motor during startup and is removed from the circuit afterward. The average cost range for a start capacitor is between $110 and $325.
How Does HVAC Unit Type Affect AC Capacitor Pricing?
AC capacitor cost varies by the heating or air conditioning unit type. HVAC units require different types and sizes of AC capacitors and feature varying degrees of difficulty associated with the capacitor replacement process by an HVAC professional.
Residential air handlers typically feature run capacitors for permanent split capacitor (PSC) type blower motors. Gas furnaces also commonly contain run capacitors for PSC-type blower motors and inducer fan motors (used only in heating mode). Condensing units (AC and heat pump types) frequently use dual run capacitors to reduce the necessary space for electrical components within the outdoor unit. Packaged (all-in-one) units may contain a combination of single and dual capacitors to operate with the compressor and multiple motors within the system.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of an AC capacitor by HVAC unit type:
| HVAC Unit Type | Cost |
| Air Handler | $70 – $110 |
| Condensing Unit (A/C) | $110 – $355 |
| Condensing Unit (Heat Pump) | $120 – $365 |
| Gas Furnace | $90 – $110 |
| Packaged (All-in-One) Unit | $130 – $375 |
Which Factors Impact AC Capacitor Cost Estimates?
Above, we’ve outlined the typically expected AC capacitor cost estimates. Still, certain factors can significantly impact the cost of an AC repair, such as replacing a failing capacitor with a new capacitor. Your HVAC system’s size (capacity) is one such factor, as larger systems with larger motors and compressors require larger capacitors. Unit location and service access are additional considerations, as they can each directly impact labor costs.
Run capacitors and start capacitors are available in various working voltages, and HVAC capacitors with higher voltage ratings typically cost more than those with lower ratings. Product quality is another area that leads to variance in expected HVAC repair pricing. While the old capacitor that initially came with your HVAC system may have lasted over 10 years, the expected lifespan for a new capacitor may be much lower. Entry-level replacement AC capacitors are typically only warranted for one year, while higher quality parts may feature five-year manufacturer coverage.
HVAC System Size
The size of your HVAC system can directly correlate to the AC capacitor replacement cost because larger systems featuring higher tonnage (nominal capacity) will typically contain larger AC capacitors (rated in microfarads, specified as MFD or uF). After reviewing the most commonly installed compressors in 1.5-ton to 5.0-ton HVAC systems, we found the AC capacitor size ranges from 30 to 70 microfarads. Considering the impact on the total AC capacitor price, we noticed a cost increase from $40 to $130 for related HVAC repair services.
Unit Location & Service Access
AC capacitor replacement costs depend on the location and difficulty of accessing your HVAC equipment. Believe me, as a professional HVAC technician with decades of experience, when I tell you that HVAC companies charge additional labor fees for difficult access situations for HVAC system tune-ups and repairs. For example, if a professional HVAC technician takes 30 minutes to gain access to and replace your system’s blower capacitor, you could expect an additional $30 to $60 to install the new AC capacitor.
Rated Voltage
Run capacitors and start capacitors feature various working voltages, and the voltage and price are often correlated. Modern residential heating and air conditioning systems typically feature run capacitor voltage ratings of 370V or 440V and start capacitor voltage ranges of 125V, 250V, or 330V. We found the voltage rating to impact AC capacitor pricing by an average of $20 to $95. If you’re curious about the specific voltage ranges of the AC capacitors in your HVAC system, ask your HVAC technician to include this information on your service report from your annual HVAC system inspection.
Product Quality
Very few AC service companies replace capacitors with original manufacturer parts (the exact brand and model capacitors your HVAC unit left the factory with). While it’s more common to find OEM (original equipment manufacturer) replacement start capacitors due to specification requirements, nearly every run capacitor and dual run capacitor replaced in the field is an aftermarket (universal) replacement part. It just makes better sense for the contractor and the homeowner alike.
There are dozens of aftermarket AC capacitor manufacturers and significant differentiation in pricing, bringing considerable variation in product quality. In Southern Arizona, our summers frequently subject run capacitors to temperatures above 130°F. This harsh operating condition commonly reduces the lifespan of lower quality capacitors to just one or two major demand seasons, while they could last for five or more years in more mild climates. On average, we found AC capacitor product quality to impact replacement pricing by $15 to $140.
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Professional vs. DIY AC Capacitor Replacement
Being a professional HVAC technician and an avid DIY enthusiast allows me to provide my clients with the best advice from both angles. If you’ve spent more than just a few minutes searching social media for AC troubleshooting help to restore your cold air, odds are you’ve encountered at least one person recommending replacing your AC capacitor.
As someone who pays extra attention to HVAC-related posts in social media groups, I can tell you that DIY capacitor replacement is a hot-button topic. While replacing and connecting an AC capacitor is relatively simple, taking on this project yourself without the proper tools and experience can result in serious injury or thousands of dollars in damages.
Doing AC Capacitor Replacement Yourself
I know how tempting it is to save money by going DIY, but please read this section carefully if you’re considering replacing a capacitor in your AC unit’s electrical system. A capacitor stores energy. That’s kind of its thing. Before you remove a screw from your HVAC unit service panel, your primary goal is to ensure that the stored electrical energy doesn’t travel through your body. I’ve personally had a nice jolt from an 80uF run capacitor as I was explaining proper discharge and safety techniques to a client, and you don’t want to experience this for yourself.
Aside from safety issues, warranty and financial considerations affect your decision on whether to replace an AC capacitor yourself.
HVAC equipment manufacturers provide warranty coverage for your system dependent on specific terms and conditions. Most typically, one of those conditions is that your system is neither installed, serviced, nor repaired by an individual who doesn’t possess proper certification. Similarly, suppose your HVAC system is under installation or repair labor warranty. In that case, very few HVAC companies will uphold warranty coverage if they become aware that you attempted repairs on your system.
The final consideration I offer is a simple yet widely overlooked question. Why did the AC capacitor fail to begin with? If you’re not confident answering this question, it could be financially disastrous for you in the upcoming weeks or months. Was it simply a cheaply made component? Is there a loose high-voltage connection somewhere in your HVAC system or electrical service panel? Is the compressor or fan motor connected to the capacitor you just replaced operating correctly? A professional HVAC technician has the tools and experience to answer these questions and potentially avoid thousands of dollars in unnecessary repair costs down the road.
Hiring a Professional for AC Capacitor Replacement
AC capacitor replacement is not typically a planned-for and sought-after project such as a proactive furnace or air conditioner replacement. Most homeowners need to be made aware when their capacitors require replacement, leading to most capacitor replacements occurring during annual maintenance visits or demand service calls for noisy air conditioners.
The best way to ensure your system’s capacitors are in proper operating condition is to have your HVAC system inspected and maintained before each cooling and heating demand season.
Here’s an easy step-by-step list to get started choosing an HVAC pro:
- Find local experts near you: If you’re in the market for a top-tier HVAC contractor, here are our top 5 best HVAC companies.
- Get multiple quotes: Request information about annual maintenance plans. I encourage my clients to work with HVAC contractors that adhere to ENERGY STAR HVAC maintenance guidelines.
- Do some homework: Research prospective HVAC service providers online to verify they’re well established and have demonstrated a track record of excellent service.
- Verify licensing: Some states require special HVAC services licensing or certification. Review the rules for your location and make sure the company you hire is compliant.
So, Is AC Capacitor Replacement Worth It?
When your system’s AC capacitor degrades to the point where its measured capacitance is outside the acceptable range noted on the label (+/- 10% max), it’s time to replace it. Additional telltale indicators include visible swelling, leaking fluid, excessive corrosion, or noisy compressor operation. Don’t be misled by the fact that your HVAC system appears to be functioning correctly. If the capacitance rating is below specification, failure to replace the AC capacitor shortly could result in internal damage or failure of the connected motor or compressor. Prolonging a minor repair could cost you thousands of dollars a few months from now.
Frequently Asked Questions About AC Capacitor Replacement
Can I replace an AC capacitor myself?
AC capacitor replacements (and, more importantly, the post-repair procedures) are typically outside the scope of the average DIY homeowner. Correct capacitor discharge, testing, and connected component evaluation require experience and electrical test equipment with features many basic multimeters don’t include. Given this consideration, combined with the safety implications and potential financial impact, I recommend leaving capacitor replacement to the professionals.
Will my AC run with a bad capacitor?
Yes, unless the capacitor has wholly failed, which is one reason annual HVAC system maintenance is so important. Compressors and motors will typically continue to operate with underperforming AC capacitors. Don’t be fooled by the cold air. If your system’s capacitor isn’t meeting specifications, the compressor or motor connected to it will likely suffer some internal damage with each cooling cycle.
How can I tell if my AC capacitor is bad?
Capacitance is measured using an electrical meter that can measure microfarads (MFD or uF). Visible indicators your AC capacitor may be bad include start-up failure of connected motors or compressors, visible swelling, leaking fluid, excessive corrosion, or excessive operating noise.
What are the different types of AC capacitors?
The most common AC capacitors in residential HVAC systems include run capacitors, dual run capacitors, and start capacitors. A run capacitor assists a single component during operation, a dual run capacitor does the same for two parts, and a start capacitor helps with compressor or motor startup before being removed from the circuit.
